Exercise After Delivery

Typically, if you’re ready to start a fitness routine, you should check with your health care provider to make sure it’s safe for you to begin exercising, especially if you have had a c-section.

If your goal is weight loss, consistent exercise and a healthy diet are the best ways to lose weight and return to your "pre-pregnant" weight. But don’t over-do it. A one- to two-pound weight loss per week is the healthiest rate of weight loss. It's not uncommon for it to take up to twelve months for you to return to your previous weight.

Here are some questions you can think about before choosing an exercise routine:

What physical activities do I enjoy?

Do I prefer group or individual activities?

Are there any activities I can do with my baby?

What programs best fit my schedule?

Do I have physical conditions that limit my choice of exercise?

What goals do I have in mind? (e.g., losing weight, strengthening muscles, or improving flexibility)

How do I get started?

When starting out, you should plan a routine that is easy to follow and stay with. As the program becomes more routine, you can vary your exercise times and activities.

Choose an activity you enjoy. Exercising should be fun and not a chore. You might even be able to include your baby. Try jogging or walking with the stroller, and think of your little bundle of joy as a 12+pound weight. Exercise can double as playtime.

Schedule regular exercise into your daily routine. Add a variety of exercises so you do not get bored.

Abdominal exercises will be most effective after six weeks.

Stick with it. If you exercise regularly, it will soon become part of your lifestyle.

If you feel you need supervision or medical advice to begin an exercise program, ask your doctor.

A general rule after c-sections is to not lift weights heavier than your baby (six to 10 pounds) in the first six to eight weeks.

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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 7/23/2012...#9680